10 Things you DIDN'T Know About Gilbert, Arizona

by Cole Repp

10 Things you DIDN'T Know About Gilbert, Arizona

From hay fields to high-end neighborhoods, Gilbert, Arizona has come a long way.

Once known as the “Hay Shipping Capital of the World,” this former farming town has transformed into one of the fastest growing, safest, and most desirable cities in the United States. But while everyone talks about Gilbert’s great schools, family-friendly vibe, and clean neighborhoods, there are plenty of things even locals might not know.

Here are 10 surprising facts about living in Gilbert from its hidden history to the exciting projects shaping its future.

1. From Farmland to One of America’s Fastest Growing Cities

Rewind a few decades, and Gilbert was all farmland, dirt roads, and a single rail line hauling alfalfa across the desert. It wasn’t even an incorporated town until 1920. For most of the 20th century, it was known primarily for hay production.

Fast forward to today, and Gilbert has nearly tripled its population in just 20 years, growing from 110,000 in 2000 to almost 290,000 residents. That’s one of the fastest growth rates of any large city in America and it’s no accident. Gilbert’s leadership took a master planned approach to growth, ensuring that neighborhoods were designed with parks, schools, and walkability long before those became buzzwords.

2. A City Built on Master Planned Neighborhoods

Neighborhoods like Power Ranch, Seville, and Agritopia weren’t built by chance. They were purposefully designed to foster community, with trails, green spaces, and schools woven into every square mile.

That intentional planning gives Gilbert a “small town feel” even as it grows rapidly. Streets are wide and clean, neighborhoods are connected, and it’s rare to drive more than a few minutes without passing a park or playground.

Of course, rapid growth comes with tradeoffs: farmland becoming subdivisions, road expansions, and construction zones. Yet somehow, Gilbert continues to balance progress with personality.

3. One of Arizona’s Youngest Populations

Here’s something most people don’t realize: Gilbert has one of the youngest populations in the state.

The median age is just 34.5 years old, almost a decade younger than nearby Scottsdale or Sun Lakes. About 40% of households have kids under 18. That youthful energy is part of what shapes the town’s culture.

Weekends are filled with soccer games, farmers markets, and family events. Nearly every neighborhood has a park, splash pad, or trail system, and local restaurants are designed for families, big patios, games for kids, and plenty of outdoor space.

Gilbert is proof that “family friendly” doesn’t have to mean boring.

4. Gilbert’s High Income Levels Shape Its Lifestyle

With a median household income topping $115,000, Gilbert ranks among the wealthiest cities in Arizona and it shows.

That extra income translates into pristine streets, well-maintained neighborhoods, and top-rated schools. Shopping centers are anchored by stores like Whole Foods, Lululemon, and Apple, while even casual restaurants are designed to feel like an experience beautiful lighting, open patios, and that “Instagram-worthy” touch.

This economic stability also gives Gilbert a strong housing market. When other areas saw steep price drops during the 2022 correction, Gilbert stayed relatively steady thanks to strong demand and financially stable buyers.

5. One of the Safest Cities in the Nation

Safety is one of Gilbert’s biggest selling points. In 2022, SmartAsset ranked Gilbert as the #2 safest large city in the U.S., and it consistently places in the top 10 nationwide.

The violent crime rate is roughly one third the national average, and residents often describe the city as “Disneyland clean.” You’ll see families walking dogs at night, kids riding bikes to school, and neighbors leaving garage doors open a level of comfort that’s rare in big cities today.

Much of that safety comes from Gilbert’s community oriented policing, where officers are visible, approachable, and actively engaged online and in person.

6. Parks, Trails, and Green Spaces Everywhere

For a desert city, Gilbert is surprisingly green. It has over 600 acres of developed parks and another 1,000 acres of open space.

Local favorites include:

Freestone Park: the city’s flagship green space with lakes, playgrounds, and fields

Discovery Park: a sprawling sports hub in south Gilbert

Gilbert Regional Park: a massive destination with pickleball courts, splash pads, playgrounds, and plans for a lake and amphitheater

Even neighborhood communities like Power Ranch and Lyon’s Gate have trails, pools, and clubhouses that make them feel like mini resorts. With more than 300 sunny days per year, Gilbert’s layout makes it easy to live an active, outdoor lifestyle.

7. A Resilient and Desirable Housing Market

Gilbert’s home prices range from $570,000 to $675,000 on average, about 20% higher than nearby Mesa or Queen Creek. But those prices come with long-term stability.

Because the town has limited land left for new construction, strong household incomes, and high demand for schools and safety, Gilbert homes hold their value better than most other East Valley markets.

Buying in Gilbert isn’t just about owning a home, it’s about investing in a community that consistently weathers market shifts.

8. A Downtown Food Scene That Rivals Scottsdale

Downtown Gilbert officially the Heritage District is now one of the most vibrant dining and entertainment areas in the East Valley.

With more than 30 restaurants and bars, it’s a lively mix of family-friendly and nightlife options. You’ll find local favorites like Postino WineCafe, Liberty Market, Joyride Taco House, and OHSO Brewery alongside dessert spots and live music venues.

On weekends, the sidewalks are buzzing with families and couples. And with major town investments planned to double the size of the Heritage District, the best is yet to come.

9. 135 Miles of Bike Lanes and Trails

One of Gilbert’s most underrated features is its connectivity. The town has over 135 miles of bike lanes and trails, including the Western Canal Path and Heritage Trail, which let residents travel from one side of town to the other without touching a major road.

This makes biking, jogging, or walking both safe and scenic, a perfect fit for the city’s active, youthful population.

10. Top Rated Schools That Drive Demand

Education is one of Gilbert’s strongest draws. The city is served by two of Arizona’s highest rated districts. Gilbert Public Schools and Higley Unified School District plus top charter options like BASIS, Great Hearts, and Gilbert Christian.

Dozens of campuses in the area hold A and A+ ratings, consistently ranking among the best in the state for academics, teachers, and college prep.

For many families, the schools alone make Gilbert worth the move and they help keep property values high.

Bonus: The Future of Gilbert

Gilbert’s story is still being written. The next decade will bring even more change with massive new developments like:

The Ranch at Germann: a 300-acre mixed-use project featuring parks, offices, shopping, and restaurants

South Anchor: another master-planned district balancing growth in the south

Heritage District Expansion: new apartments, parking, and event spaces

With a population projected to top 300,000 by 2026, Gilbert is shifting from a suburban town to a self contained city, one that continues to balance progress with heart.

Final Thoughts

From its farming roots to its booming food scene, from award-winning schools to its unbeatable safety record, Gilbert, Arizona has evolved into a city that’s both modern and meaningful. It’s growing fast but it hasn’t lost its soul.

Whether you’re considering moving, investing, or already calling Gilbert home, one thing’s clear: this town is only getting better with time.

For a full video guide, make sure to check out my YouTube Video Here

And if you are looking to buy or sell in Arizona, we would love to earn your business!

Cole@whitelabelaz.com or text us directly at 602-350-5624

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